2026 Research Analyst

International Monetary Fund; Washington; On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The International Monetary Fund is looking for dynamic Research Analysts to support data gathering and econometrics analysis. Successful candidates will have strong analytical skills and work independently. This is a contractual appointment for one year with performance-based renewals.

Ideally, candidates should hold a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and have experience in statistical software. The IMF values diversity and welcomes requests for accommodations during selection.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Economics, Finance, Statistics or related field required.
• Two years of relevant work experience in a similar role.
• Proficiency in MS Excel and statistical software packages.

Responsibilities

• Compile statistical data and ensure consistency.
• Compute data using statistical techniques and develop summaries.
• Participate in departmental missions and liaise with authorities.

Skills

Quantitative analysis

Statistical software proficiency

Organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in a quantitative field

Tools

STATA

Excel

Python

SQL

Job description

Job Summary

Work for the IMF. Work for the World. The Fund seeks dynamic and highly motivated Research Analysts (RAs) with strong quantitative and analytical skills. The successful candidates should have the proven ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively in a team environment. The RAs will be responsible for a wide range of support including, but not limited to, data gathering, econometrics, analysis of economic or statistical data sets, and basic programming for high‑quality analyses.

This is a contractual appointment for one year, renewable for up to four years of cumulative contractual service, depending on the business need and performance of the incumbent. Research Analyst positions are filled with candidates physically residing in the local Metropolitan Washington, D.C. area.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Compile statistical data, compare and evaluate alternative data sources, and ensure consistency of series and definitions.
• Compute data collected using statistical and econometric techniques and develop summary analysis, including summary tables and charts for various reports.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive and fully documented cross‑country databases in accordance with Fund‑wide data management requirements on an ad‑hoc basis.
• Maintain relevant computer software, and write, update, modify, and execute computer programs for statistical and econometric analysis.
• Initiate analytical work, especially the econometric analysis, underpinning the work of relevant papers and publications produced by the work unit.
• Participate in divisional/departmental research projects and draft targeted notes on selected issues of relevance to the division's or department’s work program.
• Participate in occasional departmental missions and liaise with country authorities, academia, or financial institutions.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Economics, Finance, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Data Science or other related quantitative field. A Master’s degree is more competitive.
• Two years of relevant work experience in a similar role.
• Proficiency in MS Excel, including basic functions and formulas.
• Proficiency in the use of analytical, statistical and econometric software packages such as STATA, EViews, R, TSP, SPSS, Matlab and SAS.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience working with finance, budget, people analytics, macroeconomic data and writing macroeconomic research reports.
• Experience and ability to use a range of visual presentation tools such as PowerPoint, MS Excel charts, Tableau, Keynote, Prezi and similar tools.
• Familiarity with database management tools such as Power BI, SQL, MS Access, IBM Cognos BI.
• Knowledge of Python, C++, and other similar programming tools would be a plus.

Key Competencies

• Proven ability to manage large and complex databases and develop summary analysis, including summary tables and charts.
• Sound analytical and problem‑solving skills, including knowledge of statistical applications and techniques.
• Strong organizational and data‑management skills; ability to handle several responsibilities and work under tight time constraints.
• Ability to work without direct supervision, pay close attention to details, and bear independent responsibility for data accuracy.
• Proven experience in dealing with all levels of staff in responding to a wide range of inquiries.
• Ability to use tact, discretion, and sound judgment when dealing with clients and handling confidential information.

Department and Hiring

Department: Hiring For: A06, A07, A08. The IMF is guided by the principle that the employment, classification, promotion, and assignment of staff shall be made without discrimination against any person. We welcome requests for reasonable accommodations for disabilities during the selection process.